TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Whether you're a beach lover, an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a relaxation devotee, Puerto Vallarta has something to offer. Nestled on Mexico's Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a paradise brimming with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and countless adventures waiting to be experienced.
But planning for a short trip to PV can be a challenge when there’s so much to see and do in such a minimal amount of time.
4 Unique Puerto Vallarta Itineraries For The Perfect Getaway in Paradise
That’s why I’ve compiled four unique 5-day itineraries for exploring and enjoying all that PV has to offer in a short amount of time! Experience them as-is, or mix and match your favorite ideas to come up with an itinerary of your own.
(OR, if you’re reeeeeally over the idea of planning anything, WHATSOEVER, you can buy an access pass to Pocket Guëra – my exclusive guidebook for PV travelers who want to explore Vallarta with the wide-eyed wonder of a tourist being safely guided by the seasoned decision-making prowess of a resident expat who knows better than to give Señor Frog's any time of day.)
Here are four of my favorite sample itineraries to help you make the most of a 5-day trip to this beautiful destination.
Puerto Vallarta Itinerary #1 "BEACH & RELAXATION"
DAY 1
"Arrival & Beach Time"
MORNING: Arrive in PV and check into your beachfront hotel in the Hotel Zone. Settle in, unpack, and get ready to hit the beach.
AFTERNOON: Head to Playa de los Muertos, the most famous beach in downtown Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. Rent a sun lounger and umbrella, and unwind with the sound of the waves. The beach is bustling with activity, offering water sports, beachside vendors, and lively bars.
EVENING: Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants in the Romantic zone, like La Palapa or Daiquiri Dick’s.
(Curious which beachfront restaurant in the RZ is my top choice??? SPOILER ALERT: it’s not either of the two I just mentioned, LOL. Purchase an access pass to Pocket Guëra to see all of my insider knowledge and suggestions, including which restaurants in the RZ are my must-have’s and better-not’s.)
After dinner, watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and then take a leisurely stroll along the Malecón, the city's lively boardwalk. The Malecón is dotted with sculptures, street performers, and local vendors, making it a perfect spot to soak in the evening atmosphere.
DAY 2
"Exploring The Bay"
MORNING: Book an all-inclusive yacht tour of Banderas Bay. Options include snorkeling trips to Los Arcos Marine Park, heading to Isla las Murietas, or riding down to Yelapa.
Snorkeling at Los Arcos is a my suggestion for this part of the itinerary. It offers a chance to see colorful marine life and underwater caves, as well as a chance to check out some hidden beaches along the caost.
AFTERNOON: Return to the beach for more relaxation or visit a beach club like Mantamar Beach Club for a day of luxury lounging. Enjoy cocktails by the pool, take a dip in the ocean, or simply relax under a cabana.
EVENING: Dine at Café des Artistes, known for its gourmet cuisine and romantic ambiance. This upscale restaurant offers a blend of French and Mexican flavors in a beautiful garden setting.
DAY 3
"Spa Day"
MORNING: Visit one of Puerto Vallarta's renowned spas, such as Ohtli Spa at the Marriott. The Marriott Hotel has some of the best spa treatments in town so if you're already booked here then you're that much closer to sheer bliss!
Enjoy a morning of pampering with massages, facials, and hydrotherapy. If you want to try a spa in the downtown area, you can check Cupocity.com, a coupon site for Latin America, and see if there are any spa treatments listed within the downtown PV area.
AFTERNOON: Continue your relaxation by the hotel pool or take a yoga class at Davannayoga. A gentle yoga session will help you feel centered and rejuvenated.
EVENING: Have a quiet dinner at The River Café, located on the Isla Cuale, offering a serene riverside setting. The restaurant is known for its delicious international cuisine and tranquil ambiance.
DAY 4
"Trip to Yelapa or Playa las Caletas"
MORNING: Book a boat to Yelapa, OR book a boat to Playa Las Caletas - both locations are only accessible by boat transportation.
Either journey offers breathtaking views of the coastline, but where Yelapa is a quaint, charming, laid-back fishing village with no cars and a slow pace of life, Caletas is entirely isolated - as if you and your group had an island all to yourselves!
AFTERNOON: Spend the day on Yelapa's tranquil beach, or enjoy the isolated tranquility of Playa las Caletas. Swim in the clear waters, hike to the nearby waterfall (if you chose Yelapa, that is), and bask in the beauty of slow-paced living in paradise. The waterfall hike is a moderate trek through the jungle, rewarding you with a refreshing dip in the natural pool.
EVENING: Return to Puerto Vallarta and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Tintoque, a contemporary Mexican restaurant. Tintoque offers innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients, providing a modern twist on traditional flavors.
DAY 5
"Final Beach Day & Departure"
MORNING: Enjoy your last few hours taking one (or more!) of my self-guided walking tours thorough downtown PV. Whether you’re looking to try the best street foods (with my "Street Food Sampler" tour) or want to rage with your crew (with the "Parade of the Besties" tour), Pocket Guëra has an itinerary with your name on it!
Purchase an access pass today to take all seven of my walking tours, browse my exclusive Vallarta restaurant and business reviews, and get my resident expat insight into all things Vallarta.
AFTERNOON: Do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs at the local markets. Look for handcrafted items such as jewelry, textiles, and ceramics to bring a piece of Puerto Vallarta home with you.
EVENING: Head to the airport for your departure, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated from your relaxing beach getaway.
Puerto Vallarta Itinerary #2
"NATURE & ADVENTURE"
DAY 1
"Arrival & City Exploration"
MORNING: Arrive in Puerto Vallarta and check into your hotel in the Downtown area. After settling in, get ready to explore.
AFTERNOON: Get to know the city with one of my self-guided walking tours of downtown PV. Purchase an access pass to Pocket Guëra to get all seven of my walking tours, along with all of my resident expat insights, and exclusive restaurant and business reviews. Then spend the afternoon visiting local hotspots and hidden gems all over downtown PV, like the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, or my and Anthony Bourdain's favorite taco stand in town!
EVENING: Enjoy dinner at Pellizcadas, a local favorite for arrachera tacos in lively atmosphere. The portions are generous, the food is incredible, and the location is central to everything in the downtown area.
DAY 2
"Ziplining & ATV's"
MORNING: Head out for a ziplining adventure! Fly through the treetops and enjoy spectacular views of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The zipline tour includes 11 lines, offering thrilling rides over the lush canopy.
AFTERNOON: OR setup this entire day with a zipline and ATV combination tour! Experience the thrill of off-roading and discover hidden waterfalls and rivers. The guided ATV tour takes you through rugged terrain, giving you a taste of the natural beauty of the region.
EVENING: Return to the city for dinner at El Barracuda, a beachfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. The casual, relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect end to an adventurous day.
DAY 3
"Whale Watching & Snorkeling"
MORNING: Book a whale-watching tour (seasonal, typically December to March) to see humpback whales in Banderas Bay. The sight of these majestic creatures breaching and tail-slapping is unforgettable.
AFTERNOON: After whale watching, book some time at Los Arcos Marine Park for snorkeling. Marvel at the underwater world and its diverse marine life. The crystal-clear waters around the rock formations are teeming with colorful fish, making it a snorkeler's paradise.
EVENING: Dine at La Oceano on the Malecón, which offers a variety of Mexican dishes and a vibrant atmosphere. The lively setting is perfect for sharing stories of your day's adventures.
DAY 4
"Day Trip to Sayulita"
MORNING: Take a day trip to Sayulita, a bohemian surf town about an hour's drive North from Puerto Vallarta. Rent a surfboard or take a surfing lesson, or book a horseback ride through the jungle and down to beach. Both are a blast!
Sayulita's consistent waves and laid-back vibe make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers, and its calm jungle makes horseback rides an absolute delight.
AFTERNOON: Explore the colorful streets of Sayulita on this Taco Tour. Sample the foods while exploring this funky towns' vibrant art scene and eclectic shops.
EVENING: Return to Puerto Vallarta and have dinner at Barcelona Tapas, which offers great views of the city and the bay. The rooftop setting provides a stunning backdrop for enjoying delicious Spanish cuisine.
DAY 5
"Hike & Departure"
MORNING: Embark on a hike to El Mirador at the top of Zona Centro. It's a bit of a climb, lots of stairs and steep roads, but the view is extraordinary! Something few tourists ever see directly and a sight I almost guarantee you haven't noticed since you've been in town.
AFTERNOON: Return to the city, pack up, and do some last-minute exploring or shopping. Stroll through the local markets or visit the art galleries in the Zona Romántica.
EVENING: Head to the airport for your departure, feeling exhilarated and accomplished after your adventure-filled trip.
Puerto Vallarta Itinerary #3
"CULTURE & HISTORY"
DAY 1
"Arrival & Historical Center"
MORNING: Arrive in Puerto Vallarta and check into your hotel in the Downtown area. Once settled, let's start your cultural exploration with a self-guided walking tour of downtown PV. Purchase access to Pocket Guëra to get all of my 7 best tours!
AFTERNOON: Explore the Malecón and visit the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Learn about the city's history and architecture through a self-guided walking tour. The Malecón is also home to many sculptures and art installations, adding to its cultural significance.
Feel free to wander whimsically on your first afternoon in town as the Malecon holds a ton of hidden gems!
EVENING: Enjoy a traditional Mexican dinner at Pellizcadas, known for its arrachera steak and wafting smell of deliciousness enveloping its street corner.
DAY 2
"Art & Culture"
MORNING: Visit the numerous art galleries in Zona Romántica and Gringo Gulch. The galleries showcase a mix of traditional and contemporary works by local and international artists. Pocket Guëra features excellent guidance on roaming the art scenes of both the Romantic zone and Centro, each teeming with art galleries.
AFTERNOON: Explore the Cuale Cultural Center and the nearby Isla Cuale, home to artisan markets and cultural exhibits. The island is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, offering a quiet escape and plenty of cultural activities.
EVENING: Attend a performance at Teatro Vallarta or enjoy a live music show at one of the local venues. From traditional mariachi to modern dance performances, there's always something happening in Puerto Vallarta's vibrant cultural scene.
DAY 3
"Culinary Experience"
MORNING: Take a Mexican cooking class with a local chef. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like tamales, mole, and ceviche. The hands-on experience is both educational and fun, giving you a deeper appreciation for Mexican cuisine.
AFTERNOON: Visit the Mercado Emiliano Zapata to experience the local market atmosphere and sample fresh produce and snacks. The market is a great place to try local specialties and pick up ingredients for your next meal.
EVENING: Dine at Hacienda San Angel, a boutique hotel and restaurant with a beautiful setting and delicious cuisine. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city and bay, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
DAY 4
"Day Trip to San Sebastian del Oeste"
MORNING: Take a day trip to the colonial town of San Sebastián del Oeste, located in the mountains about an hour and a half from Puerto Vallarta. The drive itself offers scenic views of the lush countryside.
AFTERNOON: Explore the charming streets, visit coffee plantations, and learn about the town's history and architecture. San Sebastián del Oeste retains its colonial charm with cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and historic landmarks.
EVENING: Return to Puerto Vallarta and enjoy dinner at River Café, located on the banks of the Cuale River. The restaurant is known for its international menu and serene riverside setting.
DAY 5
"Museums & Departure"
MORNING: Visit the Naval History Museum to learn about the maritime history of the region. The museum features exhibits on naval battles, shipbuilding, and the history of navigation in the area.
AFTERNOON: Explore the Museo del Cuale, located on Isla Cuale, for a deeper understanding of local culture and history. The museum offers exhibits on pre-Hispanic artifacts, regional history, and traditional crafts.
EVENING: Head to the airport for your departure, enriched with the cultural and historical knowledge of Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta Itinerary #4
"FAMILY FUN"
DAY 1
"Arrival & Beach Day"
MORNING: Arrive in Puerto Vallarta and check into a family-friendly hotel or resort. Get the kids settled in and ready for a fun-filled vacation.
AFTERNOON: Spend the afternoon at your hotel pool or beach setting, or head down to Playa de los Muertos. Even better, purchase an access pass to Pocket Guëra and take the family out for a self-guided walking tour around PV. Might I suggest "The Family Fun Time Treasure Hunt" tour???
EVENING: Have dinner at the family-friendly restaurant, El Andariego, which offers a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of dishes to suit all tastes. The restaurant's lively ambiance and extensive menu make it a hit with families.
DAY 2
"Adventure Park"
MORNING: Book an ATV adventure. Enjoy a day full of nature and adventure. You'll cruise over the longest suspension bride in North America, zip through the narrow jungle, and enjoy some food at a hidden restaurant in the mountains.
AFTERNOON: Head back to your hotel to relax by the pool. Take a break for lunch at a taco stand on your way back to the hotel. You can find all of my suggestions for the BEST taco stands near you with a paid subscription to Pocket Guëra. As a gimmie, might I suggest Tacos Chilo on Calle Honduras?
EVENING: Dine at a casual spot like Pepe’s Tacos, where the whole family can enjoy a variety of Mexican dishes. The relaxed setting and friendly service make it a great choice for families with young children.
DAY 3
"Pirate Ship Adventure"
MORNING: Take a family-friendly pirate ship tour with Marigalante. Participate in pirate-themed activities, treasure hunts, and live entertainment. The interactive show and games keep kids entertained while adults enjoy the scenic views.
AFTERNOON: Enjoy lunch on board the ship and marvel at the beautiful coastal views. The tour often includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, adding to the adventure.
EVENING: Return to shore and have dinner at El Oceano, known for its kid-friendly atmosphere.
DAY 4
"Aquarium & Water Park"
MORNING: Visit Aquaventuras Park. Kids will love seeing and interacting with marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The park also offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
AFTERNOON: Stay at Aquaventuras Park, enjoying the slides, a lazy river, and a dolphin encounter program. The park offers plenty of attractions to keep the whole family entertained for hours.
EVENING: Have dinner at La Leche, a unique restaurant with a fun, all-white interior and a menu that changes daily. The innovative design and creative dishes make it an exciting dining experience for both kids and adults.
DAY 5
"Nature & Departure"
MORNING: Take a guided tour of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Kids can learn about local flora and fauna and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The gardens offer educational programs and activities for children.
AFTERNOON: Return to your hotel to pack up and have a final swim in the pool. Take some time to relax and reflect on your fun-filled vacation.
EVENING: Head to the airport for your departure, with fond memories of family fun in Puerto Vallarta.
My Puerto Vallarta Itineraries Have Something For Everyone!
Planning a fun-filled vacation isn't the hard part.
The hard part is where you cross your fingers and hope that everything you've chosen to do is delicious and delightful...
You know that feeling you get: when you try a new restaurant in a city you've never been to and the food is crap, the service lacks, and the only thing you walk away with is an unresolved craving for something delicious to satisfy the now carnal-level hunger you have for something, anything, to tame your need for deliciousness - a snarling hunger that should've been quenched at said new restaurant, but alas...it was not - and so now you're wandering the streets of who-knows-where hoping to run into something to mask the taste of dissatisfaction now sloshing supreme inside your intestines?
...
I aim to ensure you never have that feeling while you're spending time in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, be it with food or fun.
BUT, if you wanna do me a solid and guarantee your success in this quaint city, then buy an access pass to Pocket Guëra so you've got all my suggestions, advice, and insights at the tip of your fingers.